Ticonderoga’s Mermorial Day ~~ 2014

Today’s Ticonderoga’s 2014 Memorial Day ceremonies were presented by Ti’s American Legion Post #224 as they performed the “Raising of the Colors” at several Ticonderoga cemeteries, Boy Scout Memorial, Nursing Home and its own Veteran’s Memorial on Tower Avenue. The Post’s Honor Guard and Firing Squad members included Post veterans and the Sons of the American Legion: Charles Meissner, Commander, Craig Cassidy (Vietnam/Army), Robert Fuller (Sons), Thomas Provoncha (Vietnam/Air Force/Army), Randy Fleury (Iraqi Freedom/National Guard), Lance Meissner (Sons), John Moses (Sons), James Dickerson (Sons), George Ashe (Sons), Robert Rancour (Sons), Carmine Fosco (Sons) and William Sanders (Navy.

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Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, originated from the American Civil War, was first observed by General James Garfield when he gave a presentation at Arlington National Cemetery. New York State was the first state to officially recognize this day in 1873.

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The familiar “Red Poppies” sales by the American Legion had its inspiration from the familiar World War I poem “In Flanders Fields.” In 1915 inspired by that poem Moina Michael followed up with her reply ~

We cherish too, the Poppy red

That grows on fields where valor led,

It seems to signal to the skies

That blood of heroes never dies.

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As a special recognition to those that are unable to participate with these ceremonies, and to pay a special tribute to those veterans in residence there, the legionnaires end the day’s ceremonies by visiting and greeting the nursing home.

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Ticonderoga’s beautiful Veterans Monument stands besides the LaChute River’s at the Lower Falls. Dedicated on November 11, 1996 to honor the men and women of the area who have served their nation and to those that gave the ultimate sacrifice.

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If you have not attended either the “Raising of the Colors” (Memorial Day) or the “Retrieving of the Colors” (Veterans Day) presented by our American Legion, Post #224, we urge you to do so, you will be impressed and moved.